Alberni paper carrier sexually assaulted

Port Alberni RCMP are on the hunt for a male suspect who sexually assaulted a teen female paper carrier on Friday afternoon.

The incident happened shortly after noon. A 16 year-old girl was delivering newspapers to residences in the 4900 block of Josephine Street, when an unknown male on a bicycle approached her from behind, reached out and grabbed her buttocks then cycled away towards River Road.

“Any assault that involves touching part of the body that is considered sexual is sexual assault,” RCMP Cpl. Jen Allan said.

The girl was both frightened and angered by violation, and she immediately returned home to report the incident to her parents, who then contacted police.

The suspect is described as an aboriginal male between 25-30 years of age with a thin build and medium length black hair. He was wearing a white baseball cap, a white short-sleeved collared shirt, black cargo shorts and sunglasses.

The suspect was riding a black mountain bike described as being in good condition.

Members of the public are advised to be aware of their surroundings at all times and to report all suspicious activity to the police.

Investigators want the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect in this random sexual assault.

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or can provide details that can further the police investigation, is asked to call the Port Alberni Detachment at 723-2424, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.